“There’s nothing to compare to being a Dame and getting that kind of accolade from my country and my Queen. I am very patriotic and quite a Royalist so it is extraordinary”, Joan told BBC.

“This is an immense honor that I could not believe was really for me. In fact, I thought someone was playing a trick. But it’s true, apparently, and I am thrilled, astonished and worried that I might suddenly wake up!” Kristin said.